In a clash between the Women’s Super League’s top two sides, Chelsea secured their place in the FA Women’s Continental Tyres League Cup final with a gritty 1-0 victory over Manchester City at the Joie Stadium on Wednesday. Despite City’s dominance in possession, the Blues proved why they are the defending champions, clinical when it mattered most.
Wieke Kaptein Decides Tight Semi-Final
The match, seen by many as a “preview” of their potential WSL title-decider later this month, lived up to the tactical hype. Manchester City created several clear-cut chances playing in front of their home crowd but failed to bypass an inspired Hannah Hampton.
The breakthrough came in the 41st minute when Wieke Kaptein found the net, silencing the home fans. In the second half, Gareth Taylor’s side threw everything at the Londoners, but Hampton’s heroics in the closing stages ensured Sonia Bompastor’s side kept a clean sheet and punched their ticket to the final.
Kerolin’s Absence and the Road to the Final
Brazilian star Kerolin was once again a notable absentee for the Cityzens. Fans had been hoping to see the playmaker in action for this crucial semi-final, but her ongoing recovery meant City lacked that extra bit of creative spark in the final third.
Chelsea will now face Manchester United in the grand final, after the Red Devils upset Arsenal with a 1-0 win courtesy of an Elisabeth Terland strike.
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WSL Focus Returns
Both teams now pivot back to Women’s Super League action this weekend:
- Manchester City travel to face London City on Sunday (Jan 25).
- Chelsea prepare for another heavyweight London Derby against Arsenal on Saturday (Jan 24).
Laurinda Jocias is a football writer covering English women’s football, including the Women’s Super League. Her work focuses on players, clubs, and the continued development of the women’s game in the UK.
